AE1006
A report on the archaeological phase 2 mitigation of early farmer sites (middle iron age) to be impacted on by rural residential development on the farm Praktiseer 275KT, Burgersfort District, Limpopo Province
Summary
Archaetnos cc was requested by IT Trust to carry out the 2nd Phase archaeological mitigation of Early Farmer sites located on the farm Praktiseer 275 KT, in the Burgersfort District in the Limpopo Province. This work was the result of recommendations put forward in a Phase 1 Heritage Impact Assessment conducted by R&R Cultural Resources Consultants during 2009. Based on the findings reported in their document, it was recommended that the development can continue on condition that mitigation measures are implemented. These measures included archaeological excavations and the mapping and drawing of the site and excavations. The Limpopo Heritage Resources Authority (LIHRA) supported these recommendations, and although SAHRA (Limpopo PHRA) did not comment, the APMHOB Permit Committee of SAHRA approved the permit application and issued the permit (Permit No. 80/09/11/006/51). Initial identification of the site as belonging to the Eiland and Icon facies of the Iron Age was based on decorated pottery found on the site.
After a permit was obtained from SAHRA, archaeological investigations at the site commenced during January 2010 for a two week period. Eleven excavations were conducted on selected areas on the site, while mapping and drawing was also conducted. A more detailed survey of the site and area was also undertaken, identifying and recording more features and scatters of cultural material. A fairly large amount of cultural material, mostly pottery and clay, some faunal remains and shell, metal objects and stone was recovered during this work. Two burials, containing the skeletal remains of three individuals, were also found, while some hut remains and other features were uncovered as well.
We believe that the work conducted, and the data retrieved through it, during January 2010 was adequate enough to enable us to make the necessary deductions and reconstructions. Therefore it is recommended that the development can continue, although certain conditions are put forward in the final conclusions and recommendations. As agreed with the client and SAHRA a Watching Brief will be implemented throughout the construction phase of the development. A Destruction Permit has been applied for.
Report by
A.J. Pelser & A.C. van Vollenhoven (L.AKAD.SA.)
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